In this episode, Beth Macy joins Heidi and Joel to discuss her compelling journey from journalist to political candidate. She explores how her books illuminate the struggles of rural communities facing economic and social upheaval, and how storytelling can serve as a catalyst for political change. Beth shares her insights on reconnecting with voters across political divides, the importance of local narratives, and her vision for representing rural America in Congress.
Key topics covered: Beth Macy’s background as a journalist and author of Factory Man, Dopesick, and Paper Girl
The impact of globalization, NAFTA, and foreign trade policies on rural jobs and communities
How the opioid crisis and big tech regulation highlight broader societal failures
The personal stories that catalyzed her decision to run for Congress
Strategies for bridging political divides through shared values and empathy
The challenges and opportunities of campaigning in Virginia’s Sixth District
The influence of media, misinformation, and the decline of local journalism
The role of the farm bill, small farms, and rural economic policies
Beth’s approach to reconnecting with her family across political lines
Her vision for policy solutions that serve everyday Americans